Instagram Updates: 3 Items to Step Up Your Instagram Game

This week’s tech news focuses on recent Instagram updates. It’s been almost a year since the network changed the algorithm of the news feed. Users are getting used to the curated feeds, but still grumble for the older chronological version of photos. Since that time Instagram also added Instagram Stories, Instagram Live and stickers and longer video uploads for users’ pleasure.

In recent weeks (and today), Instagram launched new features and abilities for the platform. The information below outlines the changes and current news items.

Instagram Updates

1…Face Filters are now on InstagramInstagram
Today, Instagram announced the ability to include face filters in the camera. This allow users to add something cool to their selfies. The face filters are similar to the Snapchat “Lenses” that we know and love. Yes, Facebook/Instagram duplicated this concept and made it appropriate for the platform. Read more about the new feature on the Instagram Blog >>> HERE.

Who didn’t see this coming? No one. It was only a matter of time before the face filters appeared on Instagram. Look for them next on Facebook. It seems that these networks are duplicating popular capabilities and not necessarily creating new things. Snapchat should be on alert. This isn’t the first time [or the second time] that Facebook has “jacked” them for their popular features. Have you used the new IG face filters? Let me know what you think.

2…Upload images to Instagram without using the appForbes
After recent update to the Instagram website, users can now upload images without using the Instagram app. But, there’s a catch. This feature is only available in mobile browsers. This requires users to switch their desktop browser to the mobile version. Read how to do this from Forbes >>> HERE.

So, this is a win…even if there’s an extra step required. Before this update, I was in the habit of transferring images / memes to my phone and uploading using the app. I also started using Later, a website that lets you schedule Instagram posts, but still required use of the app to publish the post. I haven’t tried this feature yet. I’m waiting to see a good meme that I want to share. ? Have you tried using the mobile browser to add images to Instagram?

3…What is a Shadowban, and are you experiencing it?Alex Tooby
The current buzzword around Instagram users and influencers is “Instagram Shadowban.” It’s a hot topic of discussion on forums, like Quora, and in Facebook groups. What is a shadowban? The Instagram Shadowban is when your images are not showing up in the hashtag feed on Instagram Search. This means that only your followers can see you photos, but no one else. Read more about Shadowban and ways to avoid it from Alex Tooby >>> HERE.

Recently, I noticed several conversations in a few of my Facebook groups mentioning the shadowban. It is a serious situation for those who are using their accounts for monetization. Many people are confused, and several are upset. I understand the need for Instagram to clean the feeds of spam posts. However, I sympathize with those you are being shadow banned. Alex Tooby does a great job at explaining the phenomenon and provides realistic ways to help avoid the situation. Alex knows her stuff!

In closing, Instagram is making big moves to compete with the competition and to keep the network relatively safe from spam. The face filters could be a game changes. And, the shadowban could be here to stay. Instagram remains one of my favorite social media networks. I’m never ever ever leaving it alone. <<<— in my Taylor Swift voice.

What are your favorite Instagram features at the moment?

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I'm a female who enjoys french fries and everything associated with them. I am a foodie, a carb lover and someone on a mission to lose the extra pounds. At the core of things, I am a storyteller. Professionally, I’m a marketer. I write about food, exercise, traveling and events. I am a daughter, sister, aunt and friend. Welcome to my life…one post at a time.

In the always changing world of social media, it’s refreshing to read a post like this – I love how you laid the changes out simply and explained them in layperson’s terms!! I would have never known about Shadowban if it weren’t for you -thanks!!

This is very interesting! I also read recently that the shadow banning isn’t even a thing. Instagram is just starting to move away from hashtags and starting to use a new technology to categorize photos based on accounts. Not sure if I just made any sense . haha BUT It is apparently something Facebook and IG have been experimenting with for a while and they are just slowly moving in that direction. Not 100% sure if it’s true. Who really knows? haha

Thanks for the comment, Logan. Interesting concept you brought forth. I hope they don’t move away from hashtags. They are a unique part of social media. We will see, in due time, if that scenario is accurate.